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Continence management following surgery for prostate cancer
Bladder weakness, or urinary incontinence, is experienced by many men following surgery for prostate cancer. This is a common problem, however many men find this the biggest challenge they have to cope with during the recovery process.
Most men regain their bladder control over time and are fully recovered within 6 to 12 months. However, it is important to get professional advice to help cope with bladder weakness during this time. This booklet will provide you with helpful ways to improve and manage your incontinence following prostate surgery.
How do I manage the incontinence?
You may experience severe incontinence in the first few weeks following surgery. The best way to deal with this is to be prepared for it and learn what you should do to manage it. Incontinence after prostate surgery can take 6 to 12 months to completely resolve. In some cases there can be an ongoing problem which may require further surgery. You can contact the National Continence Helpline on free call 0800 650 659 to learn more or to access free information and education resources.
Continence products for urinary incontinence
Pads
Pads are the first choice in managing urinary incontinence. There are several pads available in supermarkets and pharmacies which are specifically designed for men.
Some pads have an adhesive strip to keep them in place in the underwear. It is important to wear firm fitting jock-type underwear – not boxer shorts. Some pads are like complete pants with an absorbent pad in the crotch.
Pads are designed to lock away urine so that you feel dry and any unwanted odors are contained. A continence nurse advisor, urology nurse or continence physiotherapist can advise you on what pad is best for your level of incontinence.
Note: a pad is a way on managing incontinence, not treating it. It is important to eat well, drink well, exercise, do regular pelvic floor muscle exercises and practice good bladder and bowel habits.
Condom drainage
Condom drainage is useful for men experiencing severe leakage that requires more than 4-6 pads a day. A continence nurse advisor or urology nurse will be able to assess if condom drainage is suitable for you. This system uses a specially adapted condom type device that fits on the penis and is held in place by an adhesive. A drainage bag is attached to the condom to collect leakage from the bladder, similar to using a catheter.
Note: Condom drainage is a way of managing incontinence, not treating it. To improve bladder control, it is important to eat well, drink well, exercise, do regular pelvic floor muscle exercises and practice good bladder and bowel habits.
Skin Care
Skin irritation is commonly associated with incontinence. Here are some simple steps to care for your skin:
- Wash in warm water using a soap free cleanser or pH neutral soap.
- Pat dry carefully – do not rub.
- Avoid talcum powder as it can cause skin irritation and may interfere with the absorbency of pads.
- Wear firm fitting cotton underwear – no boxer shorts.
- Avoid plastic pants or sheets that will cause you to sweat.
If your skin becomes irritated, you can use sorbolene cream to moisturise the area. A barrier cream may also be necessary. Use any cream sparingly as they may interfere with the absorbency of pads. Talk to a continence advisor nurse if your skin irritation does not improve with these simple steps.
Help and advice
There are a number of health professionals who can help you with incontinence following prostate surgery. Continence advisors can give you advice about diet, exercise (including pelvic floor muscle exercises) and products such as pads, catheters and mattress protectors.
Continence physiotherapists specialize in pelvic floor muscle exercises and can develop an individual program to suit your needs as well as provide advice about pads and general exercise. If your incontinence persists beyond 12 months, talk to your urologist as there are a range of surgical alternatives to help you achieve dryness, for example an artificial sphincter or sling.
Remember, incontinence can be treated, managed and in many cases cured: See http://www.continence.org.nz/pages/continence-and-prostate/37/: Continence and Prostate – A Guide for Men Undergoing Prostate Surgery.
Continence management following surgery for prostate cancer
Bladder weakness, or urinary incontinence, is experienced by many men following surgery for prostate cancer. This is a common problem, however many men find this the biggest challenge they have to cope with during the recovery process.
Most men regain their bladder control over time and are fully recovered within 6 to 12 months. However, it is important to get professional advice to help cope with bladder weakness during this time. This booklet will provide you with helpful ways to improve and manage your incontinence following prostate surgery.
How do I manage the incontinence?
You may experience severe incontinence in the first few weeks following surgery. The best way to deal with this is to be prepared for it and learn what you should do to manage it. Incontinence after prostate surgery can take 6 to 12 months to completely resolve. In some cases there can be an ongoing problem which may require further surgery. You can contact the National Continence Helpline on free call 0800 650 659 to learn more or to access free information and education resources.
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